Book excerpt: Now in its fourth fully revised and updated edition, this practical manual describes and illustrates every aspect of conservation work and will interest anyone responsible for the care and upkeep of a stone-built 18th century building, or with our architectural heritage. The substructure, external walls, rooves, internal details and external works of a Georgian house are studied and explained in great detail, and an entirely new section on decoration and finishes has been added. The Care and Conservation of Georgian Houses is based on the New Town of Edinburgh, described by Lord Clark as 'one of the finest pieces of town planning in Europe'. Produced under the aegis of the Edinburgh New Town Conservation Committee, the book is unsurpassed in the wealth and clarity of its information and illustrations and the excellence of its practical guidance. This fourth edition provides more technical information than previous editions and places greater emphasis on interiors. Edinburgh's 318 hectare New Town, started in 1767, is still largely unspoiled and uniquely a residential central area. It is also an outstanding Conservation Area of international importance. The success of the New Town Conservation Committee since 1970 in safeguarding the listed buildings, and ensuring that they are appropriately repaired, is due to the co-operation and expert knowledge of owners, authorities, amenity societies, architects and contractors who understand and respect the quality of architecture and the forms of construction. This book is evidence of such co-operation; the text, first written in 1976, has been updated three times as the experience of the authors and their advisers increased. This fourth edition has been completely rewritten; each page and illustration has been checked and revised and a new chapter on shop-fronts has been added. This disciplined neo-classical design of the New Town depends on precise and accurate detailing and on the choice of appropriate materials for repairs; this 'maintenance' manual sets out every aspect of typical external and structural repairs, with advice on legislation, grants and procedures for carrying out repairs which, in urban areas, are often shared between several owners. Completely updated with greater emphasis on interiors Acts as an owners guide and professional handbook Gives advice on legislation, grants and the organisation of commercial repairs